Forms & Land Configuration in Classical Feng Shui

Classical Feng Shui is derived from the ancient art and science of observing the land, hence observation and correct evaluation of the landforms to locate the best site for a dwelling are a major component of Feng Shui.

In ancient times, Feng Shui masters observed “6 External Matters” and “6 Internal Matters” in relation to the surrounding mountains and water formations. The 6 External Matters were defined as roads, wells and ponds, outhouses, animal enclosures, temples, and bridges. The 6 Internal Matters were the gate and door, the courtyard (Bright Hall/Ming Tang), the living space, bedroom, kitchen and the rice grinder.

It goes without saying that these factors have to be adjusted to modern times – after all, very few of us still have their toilets outside, grind their own rice and have animal enclosures nearby!

Nowadays, a Feng Shui master will evaluate the roads, ponds & rivers, parks and open spaces, nearby buildings and structures, access to your building, and bridges and overpasses as the 6 External Matters. The 6 Internal Matters today relate to the main door, the Bright Hall or open space just inside your main door, your bedroom, your kitchen and stove, your study, and the living room.

It is important to understand that most of what influences the Qi flow inside your house or office actually derives from what happens outside! It is a common mistake to think that fixing the inside of a house or apartment is enough. This is not so. If the external environment is not conductive to a positive Qi flow, there is not much you can do to fix it inside, no matter how skilled of a Feng Shui master you are.

Classical Feng Shui looks deeply and holistically at an environment to create not only “Space for Man”, but also “Space for the Spirit”.